How Does PCOS Affect Your Appearance?

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Doctor's response

Discoloration of the skin is not a symptom of PCOS, per se. However, women with PCO who develop insulin resistance (a
precursor to diabetes) can develop acanthosis nigricans. This is a darkening of the skin that look like black or purplish velvet texture in the underarm and collar areas.

Any skin discoloration should be evaluated by a physician. If acanthosis nigricans is found, a search is usually made for diabetes or early evidence of insulin resistance.